US
Navy MCM Mine Countermeasures Ships

Navy MCM Mine Countermeasures Ships are used by the Navy to clear
mines from vital waterways. MCM is a type ofnaval
shipdesigned
for the location of and destruction ofnaval
mines
which
combines the role of aminesweeperandminehunterin
one hull.The
term MCMV is also applied collectively to minehunters and
minesweepers.

The hulls of theAvenger-class
ships are constructed ofwoodwith
an external coat ofglass-reinforced
plastic.
The wood used isoak,Douglas
firandNootka
Cypressbecause
of their flexibility, strength and low weight. This construction
allows the hull to withstand a nearby blast from amineand
also gives the ship a low magnetic signature.